School is out, the sun is shining and opportunities for summer shenanigans are plentiful. But before heading to the beach, pool or park with the kids, make sure you take the proper precautions to ensure summer fun doesn’t get cut short by injury or illness.

1. Slather on the Sunscreen

Protecting your children’s skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays is very important. Before kids go outdoors, generously apply sunscreen with a minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 to all exposed skin (don’t forget the tops of feet and ears) 30 minutes before they head outside. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect from both types of UV rays, UVA and UVB, and don’t forget to reapply every couple of hours.

If kids will be frolicking in the waves, splashing in the pool or running through the sprinkler, be sure to use water-resistant sunscreen. Check the label to see whether the water resistance lasts for 40 or 80 minutes and reapply accordingly. 

For further protection, limit time in the sun during the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are most powerful. Take breaks in shady spots and encourage kids to wear hats and sunglasses. 

2. Stay Ahead of the Heat

Another potential summer pitfall is becoming overheated, which can quickly lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and in severe cases, heat stroke—a medical emergency. To beat the heat and keep kids safe, follow these tips:

• Make sure kids drink plenty of water while they are playing in the sun. Bring water bottles and sports drinks whenever you go outside and offer water-rich snacks, such as watermelon or ice pops.

• When the heat and humidity are high, be sure kids take frequent breaks in air conditioning or shade.

• If kids are playing sports or doing other non-water activities, have them take breaks to drink every 20 minutes. You can also cool them down by misting them with cool water.

• If heat advisories or warnings are in effect, reduce the intensity of outdoor activities.

It’s also important to be aware of the signs of heat-related illness. If your child shows any of the following symptoms, seek medical care right away:

• Extreme tiredness or sleepiness

• Fast breathing

• Feeling faint

• Fever

• Headache

• Intense thirst

• Muscle aches or spasms

• Nausea or vomiting

• Numb or tingling skin

3. Be Watchful Around Water

Many kids love to spend summer days swimming in the pool or jumping in the waves. But drownings and injuries can happen in seconds, often occurring when kids are unsupervised in the water. By taking the proper precautions, you can help ensure your kids stay safe while swimming.

• Make sure kids are supervised by an adult at all times while in the water, whether at the pool, lake or ocean. This person should avoid distractions, such as using cell phones or talking to friends, and keep eyes on kids of all ages in the water. If young children or kids who are beginner swimmers are in the water, the adult supervisor should stay within arm’s reach.

• Have children wear water shoes when swimming in lakes or the ocean to protect their feet from any rocky or rough surfaces or sharp objects.

• Even if kids are strong swimmers, make sure they do not swim out too far from the shore or the beach.

• Have children who are not experienced swimmers wear life jackets when swimming. 

• At home, make sure the pool or hot tub has a fence around it with a locking gate to prevent kids from entering the water without your knowledge. 

Have questions or concerns about your child’s summer safety? Make an appointment with your St. Luke’s Health physician.